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Careful with the decorations -

Make sure decorations and artificial trees are flame resistant or non-combustible. And if you're using a real tree, keep it well watered.

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Check the batteries -

Double-check the working conditions of smoke and CO2 detectors, sprinklers, and fire extinguishers. Make sure to annually replace batteries.

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Check for damage -

Check holiday decorations, lights, and extension cords for damage before using them. Replace any item that appears damaged.

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Be attentive to where you put your decor -

Make sure you don't block any aisles, exits, sprinklers, and such with decorations.

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Careful with the outlets -

Don’t overload electrical outlets. They can overheat and start a fire. And when you're plugging outdoors, use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).

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Don't leave anything on -

Before leaving your home, turn off all indoor and outdoor decorations. Also, don't forget to blow out any candles.

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Have adequate lighting -

With the additional hours of darkness during winter, make sure outdoor areas have adequate lighting. Keep fixtures cleaned and timers adjusted.

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Clear used paths -

Keep entrances, steps, exits, walkways, parking lots, and loading docks clear of snow, ice, or water. Don't forget to keep supplies, such as sand, salt, and shovels, nearby.

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Wear proper outdoor footwear -

For the coldest months of the year, don't forget to wear proper outdoor footwear. They should be well-insulated, waterproof, thick, non-slip, and with wide, low heels.

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People can trip -

Don’t place holiday displays, decorations, trees, or electrical cords where people may trip. And be sure to use a ladder to reach high places.

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Careful with poisonous holiday plants -

If you have small children and pets around, avoid toxic plants like holly and mistletoe. Apart from the toxicity, the berries can also pose a choking hazard.

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Toy hazards -

Besides the safety of the toys themselves, opening the gifts can actually be a hazard. In the US alone, thousands of people visit the ER with wounds and cuts from trying to rip hard plastic or those metal twist ties. Help the kids out, and be careful.

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Stay organized -

To limit stress, schedule work deadlines away from the holidays. You'll be much more at ease when the time comes.

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Be attentive when it comes to mental health -

Winter blues is a real thing, and it can easily go unnoticed during this hectic time of year. Know the signs of depression and how to approach a person who may be suffering.

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Share information - Share company and community mental health resources and services. You never know who might need the information.

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Have some holiday fun -

Boost morale and spirit by adding some (safe) fun to the workplace during the holiday season. Not only is it fun, but it can also help colleagues connect with each other.

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Don't forget much-needed breaks - Encourage employees to take frequent breaks, especially in retail and hospitality settings. It can be an overwhelming time, so people need to take some steps back.

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Consider full-spectrum lamps -

One way to help ease seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is to get full-spectrum lamps. These lamps work by simulating natural sunlight and providing the ideal balance of brightness and contrast.

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Show gratitude -

Find ways to say "thank you" to those working over the holidays. Increase contact with colleagues working alone.

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Careful when you eat -

As people are eating more during this time of year, choking is a serious problem. To avoid choking, take small bites and chew slowly and carefully. Also, avoid talking or being distracted while eating.

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Limit alcohol at workplace parties -

To ensure that you and your colleagues have a way to get home safely, limit the amount of alcohol consumption at workplace parties. Consider also taking taxis together.

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Holiday heart attacks -

With holiday stress and heavy meals, heart-related deaths peak in late December and early January. Don't ignore any chest pain and take your meds. When it comes to food, remember that moderation is everything.

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Mind your sleep -

When it comes to those late-night parties, a good night's sleep is the first thing we sacrifice. Then there's also those early mornings for holiday shopping. But skimping on sleep can lower immunity, increase stress levels, and lead to weight gain. Plus, it raises your risk for car accidents. Make sleep a priority to ensure a happy and healthy holiday season.

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Use snow tires -

Seasonal car accidents are a sad reality. Make sure to use snow tires, as all-season tires can stiffen in the cold and provide less traction.

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Don't forget your vehicle’s battery - Check your vehicle’s battery, antifreeze, wipers, windshield washer fluid, brakes, and defroster before you head out.

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Carry a winter storm kit -

Carry a winter storm kit in your car. It should contain blankets, a flashlight, a shovel, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food, extra warm clothes, and water.

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Monitor the weather -

The last thing you want is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere during a snowstorm. Always monitor weather reports for bad weather. Adjust your travel plans accordingly.

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Keep people posted -

Note your colleagues and family members of your driving destinations, routes, and estimated time of arrival.

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Drive carefully -

Allow more time to get to where you're going and keep a safe distance from other cars. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Sources: (Health.com) (Workplace Safety & Prevention Services) 

See also: How to ease seasonal depression

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